Primary is an artist-led space that exists to support creative research and to develop new ways of engaging audiences. Offering dedicated artists’ studios alongside more flexible spaces, both within and outside the building, where artists from around the world can meet and work in the heart of Nottingham. Primary is a place where artists and the public can share, experiment and learn about contemporary visual art through an ambitious programme of events and activities.
Officially opened in March 2012, Primary was set up by Nottingham Studios Ltd, a not-for-profit organisation established as a registered charity (in 2009). With support from Nottingham City Council, Arts Council England and Foyle Foundation, Primary has transformed a disused school building into a new cultural resource. Now offering dedicated artists’ studios for thirty selected artists, alongside using flexible project spaces (both within and outside the building) to offer a diverse public programme.
Primary’s new phase of development, with Grants for the Arts funding friom Arts Council England, will position the organisation as a centre for production and enhance our leadership role in the artist-led sector. Building on our achievements over the last four years we will achieve sustainability through an approach that integrates:
Through a continuity of ambition – from securing the building, to developing new partnerships and shaping the public programme – Primary has rapidly flourished into a key artist-led organisation nationally.
As well as providing studio space for over 30 contemporary artists, we have an exhibition and residency programme within the building, and an engagement programme which works with local communities, as well as hosting three small-scale galleries and an artisan bakery.